Nonconvulsive Status With Metronidazole

Abstract

Objective:

To expand the adverse events associated with metronidazole to include nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE).

Design:

Observational single case report of a rare association. Setting: Hospitalized lung transplant recipient treated with metronidazole for prevention of infection.

Patient:

A 56-year-old man with systemic symptoms, peripheral neuropathy, generalized seizure, and a subsequent acute deterioration of mental status due to NCSE.

Interventions:

Administration of midazolam was successful in terminating status epilepticus.

Main Outcome Measures:

Abrupt termination of NCSE was evident on continuous bedside electroencephalogam associated with clinical resolution of mental status.

Results:

Recovery occurred from NCSE eventually deteriorating to a fatal outcome. Conclusions: Metronidazole may be associated with successfully treated NCSE.